BY MEGHAN V. MALLOY

Staff Writer

Rising gasoline prices across the country might cool off the vacation plans of many Americans this year.

But rocketing prices could benefit Maine, as many New Englanders might decide to ramble more in their region this year.

"We're anticipating people will travel closer to home," said Steve Lyons, marketing director of the Maine Office of Tourism.

Especially with a gallon of gas expected to reach $4 by Memorial Day, as many analysts expect.

"Historically, gas prices haven't been a major factor" on how successful a tourism season is, said Lyons. "That being said, as (gas prices) are at an all-time high, we'll have to wait until summer to see what happens," Lyons said.

Sara Dix, owner of Second Street Bed and Breakfast in Hallowell, anticipates no drop-off in visits to her business.

"People are still making reservations," Dix said. "I'm not concerned yet."

"People will still want to come (to Maine)," she said. "I have a lot of customers who are coming from New York and the west coast, even."

The price at the pump could still sway the season.

"It would be impossible to say gas prices will have no effect on traveling, because, of course, there will be some," said Dan Paradee of the Maine Turnpike Authority. "But our experience has been (that the effect of fuel cost is) very minimal."

Higher costs could make some travelers cut back on short weekend trips, he said, but "when people plan big vacations, they aren't likely to alter those plans."

Weather will probably be "the biggest factor," he said. "If we have a beautiful August, people won't worry about the price of gas."

Meghan V. Malloy -- 623-3811 Ext. 431 or

mmalloy@centralmaine.com